Precautions put in place for derby clashes

04 September 2009 09:48

Security measures have been drawn up which will prevent away fans travelling independently to next month's Blackburn v Burnley match or the return fixture in March.

Despite just 16 miles separating the Lancashire clubs the rivalry between the two means officials are keen to avoid any problems when the pair meet for the first time in the Barclays Premier League.

Burnley have been given an allocation of 3,000 for the October 18 encounter at Ewood Park but all ticket-holders must travel on specially-organised coaches if they wish to enter the ground. Similar arrangements will be in place for Blackburn when their 2,400 tickets for the match at Turf Moor on March 27 go on sale.

With the violent scenes from the West Ham v Millwall Carling Cup tie still fresh in the mind, authorities in Lancashire are keen to ensure both matches pass off peacefully.

"We are satisfied the arrangements agreed between all parties offer safety - always our primary concern - to all supporters for both fixtures," said Ewood Park stadium manager John Newsham.

Burnley's safety officer Alex Wood added: "We are happy with all the arrangements for Burnley supporters and are now arranging coach travel from Turf Moor."